Skillet Salmon Pasta: The Easiest Weeknight Dinner

December 17, 2025

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Skillet salmon pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner solution. This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients and bold flavors, all coming together in one pan for easy cleanup. Combining flaky salmon with perfectly cooked pasta and a creamy, flavorful sauce, this is the kind of meal that makes you feel good from the inside out.

This easy skillet salmon pasta dish is inspired by my grandmother, who always had a way of making something delicious out of seemingly nothing. She taught me that the best food is often the simplest, and that a little love goes a long way.

Why You Will Love This skillet salmon pasta Recipe

This skillet salmon pasta recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First, it’s incredibly comforting. The combination of tender pasta, rich salmon, and a luscious sauce creates a delightfully satisfying meal. It’s quick too making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

The flavor is another huge draw. The salmon's savory taste is complemented by the creamy sauce and fragrant herbs, creating a delightful symphony of flavors your whole family will love. Best of all, everything cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor! I remember making this for my friends after a long day, and the silence as they ate spoke volumes. The easy clean up was the real clincher. And have you seen my recipe for Grilled Salmon Pasta 2?

Ingredients Needed for This skillet salmon pasta Recipe

Here’s what you will need to create this amazing skillet dish:

1 pound salmon fillet, skin on or off
1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped shallots
1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 lemon, cut into wedges, for serving
1/4 cup reserved pasta water

How to Make This skillet salmon pasta Recipe

Ready to get cooking? Follow these simple steps to create a delicious skillet salmon pasta:

Cook the pasta according to package directions, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. Set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, prepare the salmon. Cut the salmon fillet into 1 inch cubes.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped shallots and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the white wine (or chicken broth) to the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add the cubed salmon to the skillet and cook until the salmon is cooked through. It will take approximately 5 7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the cubes.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2 3 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Add the reserved pasta water if needed to adjust the consistency of the sauce.

Stir and cook to thicken and add more flavor. Serve the Grilled Salmon Pasta immediately, garnishing with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

How to Serve This skillet salmon pasta Recipe

This skillet salmon pasta is fantastic on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for dipping into that delicious sauce. A glass of crisp white wine complements the flavors beautifully. For an extra touch, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a little heat. I sometimes like to add a dollop of ricotta cheese on top for extra creaminess. Want more skillet recipes? Check out this Skillet Salmon Rice Bowl!

How to Store This skillet salmon pasta Recipe

Leftover skillet salmon pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to prevent the pasta from drying out. Freezing isn’t recommended, as the cream sauce tends to separate upon thawing. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Tips to Make This skillet salmon pasta Recipe

Don’t overcook the salmon. It should be just cooked through and still slightly moist in the center.
Use high quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
Adjust the amount of garlic and shallots to your liking.
If you don't have white wine, chicken broth works perfectly as a substitute.
Adding capers or sun dried tomatoes gives it extra flavor
For a healthier version, substitute the heavy cream with half and half.

Helpful Notes for This skillet salmon pasta Recipe

Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta in this recipe. Penne, rotini, and fettuccine all work well. Consider using wild caught salmon if it is available for a richer flavor. If you're not a fan of Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute. Remember, cooking times may vary depending on your stove and the thickness of your salmon pieces so keep a keen eye while cooking.

Variation of This skillet salmon pasta Recipe

For a seasonal twist, add some roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes in the spring. In the fall, try adding butternut squash or spinach. For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You could also try using smoked salmon for a different flavor profile. Another delicious variation is to add some sautéed mushrooms to the skillet before adding the salmon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep salmon moist in skillet salmon pasta?

To keep salmon moist, avoid overcooking it. Cook until it’s just opaque in the center and flakes easily with a fork. A creamy sauce also helps retain moisture.

What pasta goes best with salmon?

Penne, fettuccine, and farfalle are great choices for salmon pasta. Their shapes hold the sauce and pieces of salmon well, creating a balanced dish.

Can you use frozen salmon for skillet salmon pasta?

Yes, you can. Thaw the salmon completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and prevent it from becoming watery. Pat it dry before adding it to the skillet.

What can I add to skillet salmon pasta?

Consider adding vegetables like spinach, asparagus, or peas for extra nutrients and flavor. Lemon zest, fresh herbs like dill or parsley, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also elevate the dish.

Conclusion

This skillet salmon pasta recipe is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its creamy sauce, flavorful salmon, and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, grab your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a restaurant quality meal right in your own kitchen. This skillet salmon pasta dish is going to be one of your favorites!